U.S.-based operator adds next generation asphalt carrier

Built and delivered by Chinese shipyard Avic Dingheng, the Asphalt Splendor is one of a series of two designed by Chinese design institute SDARI in co-operation with Sargeant Marine, Boca Raton, FL.

The Asphalt Splendor has an overall length of 179.9m, beam of 30.6m and depth of 16.8m. The propulsion power is supplied by a single Wartsila 5RT-flex, rated at 6,400 kW at 99 rev/min.

Classed by Bureau Veritas, the tanker can carry hot, liquid asphalt at temperatures up to 170 degrees C in 16 independent tanks with a total capacity of 35,666 m3. The ship is fitted with three 500 m3/hr cargo pumps for a total capacity of 1,500 m3/hr.

Philippe Donche-Gay, Executive Vice-President and Head of the Marine & Offshore Division, Bureau Veritas, says, “The high cargo temperatures in asphalt carriers place special demands on structure, construction quality and equipment. Bureau Veritas is a world leader in this sector and currently classes a large number of these ships.”

Donche-Gay says the Asphalt Splendor will have “excellent environmental and operational performance.”

Dan Sargeant, President, Sargeant Marine, says, “It is imperative to stay ahead of the game, thinking innovatively when it comes to economics, as well as operations. We are looking forward to the second of these new vessels, also BV classed, which give us a distinct advantage in the marketplace, as there is truly nothing like this out there.”